http://www.spokesman.com/blogs/outdoors/2015/dec/28/first-day-hikes-set-mount-spokane-riverside-state-parks/
Driving Distance: 57min (29.8 mi)
Trail Distance: 4 mi
Elevation Gain: 1350 ft
Difficulty (1-5): 3
Permit(s) Required: Snow Park Permit with Groomed Trails endorsement
Description: To hike to the summit of Mt. Spokane, elevation 5889 ft, park in the snow park parking lot. Cross the street and head up the trail north of the gate. The trail will continue in the trees past a service building and will intersect with a larger trail heading north and flat. Take the first left branch off this flat trail and head up hill for around a half mile. The trail will arrive at and open area called Bald Knob, this is a nice spot for a water/snack break. Continue on the trail past the bathrooms and out on to the open face above tree level. The trail may disappear or branch on this part but simply keep heading up. About a half mile later you will arrive at the top.
Guide Review: Mt. Spokane- Washington’s largest state park- is fantastic for a day snowshoe trip or even a moonlight snowshoe, given the right conditions. This mountain is only about an hour away from campus, and it offers six official snowshoe trails ranging from easy to difficult. My favorite route is the Mt. Spokane Summit Route, which leads to an awesome view (so long as there is no fog!) I would highly recommend bringing a bottle of hot chocolate to sip at the top of the mountain as you take in the beautiful surrounding landscape!
-Kaiti K.
Gear List:
- Waterbottle
- Small First Aid Kit
- Rain Jacket
- Fleece Jacket
- Waterproof Hiking Boots
- Gaiters
- Snowshoes
- Poles
- Camera
View a trail map here
Check out the forecast here!